HESPERIA — For Joshua Circle Elementary School, 60 years of excellence and educating students is only the beginning.

Current and past students and staff members came together Saturday morning for a day of celebration in honor of their school's legacy as they participated in Joshua Circle Elementary School’s “Dream, Sparkle, Shine” Diamond Anniversary celebration.

“It’s amazing to see so many generations of Joshua Circle students all together in one place during this momentous occasion,” said Principal James Elgan. “This school has been a big part of the Hesperia community and we are thrilled to see how it will continue to grow in the following years.”

Known as the oldest school in the High Desert, Joshua Circle first opened back in 1957 as the school was known for its roundabout shaped campus with Joshua trees planted in the center of the small grass field. Today, the school continues to expand and give students in kindergarten through sixth grade the best education possible.

“It’s crazy to see how much the school has changed since when I was here as a student,” Samantha Jaime told the Daily Press. “I remember the playground being so different than what is it today. It’s awesome to see my old school get the recognition it’s getting and seeing my daughters go to the same school I did as a kid.”

On display was the original Hesperia schoolhouse bell from 1883 while Joshua Circle's first ever principal Bill Aves made a special appearance at the event.

Alumni were also invited to take a walk around the memory circle while also locating their old classroom and reconnecting with old friends and teachers.

“It’s exciting to be able to witness this exciting and historic moment,” said Hesperia Unified School District Superintendent David McLaughlin. “This school's legacy has had a huge impact for those in our community and will continue to do so thanks to the people who continue to make this school a success.”

Guests also participated in various activities set up throughout the campus, such as carnival style games, face painting and a photo booth and entering for a chance to win prizes in a raffle. Students also prepared a small show titled “Singing and Dancing Through the Decades” as they performed hit songs from previous years from when the school first opened up until today.

Sisters Angelina and Sophia Arcila said they “really enjoy” attending Joshua Circle and love how supportive and understanding their teachers are.

“My teacher is the best and I really like learning and making new friends here at school,” Angelina Arcila said.

Elgan said he is thankful for all the hard work and dedication the staff, students and community have put into this event and looks forward to see where Joshua Circle will go in the future.

Monica Solano can be reached atMSolano@VVDailyPress.com or at 760-951-6231. Follow her on Twitter @DP_MonicaInes.